FC Barcelona’s Preparations for the 2025-26 Season
As FC Barcelona gears up for the 2025-26 season, anticipation is building around manager Hansi Flick’s strategies and decisions. Players are expected to report back this Sunday, July 13, for pre-season medical examinations, with all senior squad members available as the club did not partake in any significant international matches this summer nor in the Club World Cup.
Training and Upcoming Matches
Following their medical checks, the team will commence training on Monday at the Joan Gamper facilities. The training program will last for ten days before the squad embarks on a tour of Asia, starting with a match against Vissel Kobe in Japan on July 24, followed by fixtures against FC Seoul and Daegu in South Korea.
Transfer Activity and Key Player Decisions
Despite the club’s preparations, their summer transfer activity has been relatively quiet, having secured only goalkeeper Joan Garcia so far. Winger Nico Williams chose to remain with Athletic Club, a decision that leaves Barcelona seeking at least one more senior addition, likely a forward, prior to the closing of the transfer window.
A key matter on Flick’s agenda involves Marc-André ter Stegen, the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, who finds himself in a challenging situation after the arrival of Garcia. Despite being reluctant to depart, sources indicate Flick plans to have a private discussion with Ter Stegen when training resumes, specifically addressing the 33-year-old’s future as the club’s starting goalkeeper, particularly with the German facing competition and his ongoing commitment until 2028.
Barcelona hopes that next summer’s World Cup could influence Ter Stegen’s decisions, especially as he finally claimed the role of Germany’s starting goalkeeper following Manuel Neuer’s retirement.
While the club is open to either a loan or a mutual termination of his contract, Ter Stegen maintains his right to fulfill his contract.
Meanwhile, Wojciech Szczesny has been confirmed as a second-choice keeper following a two-year contract extension after stepping in last season for an injured Ter Stegen. Additionally, Inaki Pena is likely to depart as both he and the management agree on the necessity for a change, despite having a contract until 2026.
Strengthening the Squad
Barca’s transfer efforts have also zeroed in on strengthening their attacking options, with Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford identified as potential targets. However, Diaz’s acquisition appears complicated, primarily due to Liverpool’s resistance to negotiations, particularly following the recent tragic passing of striker Diogo Jota. Conversely, Rashford’s willingness to join the Camp Nou side could play to Barcelona’s advantage as they monitor his situation.
As for the defensive lineup, Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen are expected to remain with the team, with both players initiating their training earlier to ensure peak performance. Flick has expressed confidence in Araujo, who received criticism last season, while the club seeks potential buyers for Christensen as he nears the conclusion of his contract.
Youth Integration and Potential Departures
Young talents are also part of the club’s future considerations. Flick is keen on integrating Fermin Lopez, whose attributes he values highly, and is pushing for a contract extension for Eric Garcia, viewing him as a pivotal asset.
Conversely, some departures appear likely, with Pau Victor and Marc Casado both looking like candidates for transfer. Casado’s limited playing time and the emergence of promising players like Marc Bernal could trigger a potential sale if an enticing offer comes in.
Amid these shake-ups, promising signings from youth leagues, such as Roony Bardghji from Copenhagen for €2 million and highly-touted left-back Jofre Torrents, will also be monitored as potential contributors to the first team this season.
Conclusion
In summary, as Barcelona approaches their new season, much is at stake for Hansi Flick, who is tasked with navigating player transfers, securing key player commitments, and cultivating young talent—all while preparing for an intense upcoming campaign.
